Terms of Reference (ToRs)
Position Title: Lead Scientist – Ecological Research and Monitoring
Location: Islamabad (with frequent travel to northern Pakistan)
Organization: Snow Leopard Foundation (SLF), Pakistan
Duration: Initially one year (extendable based on performance and availability of funds)
- Background
The Snow Leopard Foundation (SLF) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to conserving snow leopards, sympatric carnivores, their wild prey, and critical habitats across northern Pakistan. Our approach integrates ecological research, community-based conservation, capacity building, and awareness-raising initiatives. Ecological research underpins all SLF programs and guides informed conservation action.
SLF employs modern, non-invasive techniques such as camera trapping, genetic sampling, field surveys, and social science tools to assess species presence, distribution, abundance, human-wildlife conflict, and ecosystems services. SLF is seeking a qualified and motivated Lead Scientist to lead and strengthen its research initiatives.
- Purpose of the Position
The Lead Scientist will be responsible for designing, implementing, coordinating, and supervising ecological research across snow leopard landscapes. The incumbent will guide field studies, develop research protocols, manage and analyze data, publish findings, and contribute to the evidence-based conservation work.
- Key Responsibilities
Research Design and Implementation
- Lead the development of research strategies, protocols, and work plans related to carnivores, ungulates, and their habitats.
- Oversee the design and deployment of ecological field surveys, including camera trapping, genetic sampling, double observer counts, and ecosystem monitoring.
- Develop and implement data collection protocols in line with scientific best practices.
Data Management and Analysis
- Manage, and organize field.
- Analyze data using advanced statistical and spatial models (e.g., SECR, occupancy models, GLMMs).
- Interpret findings and prepare technical reports, peer-reviewed manuscripts, and policy briefs.
Capacity Building and Supervision
- Mentor and build the capacity of field staff, university interns, and junior researchers in ecological methods and data analysis.
- Facilitate training workshops on research techniques and tools.
Collaboration and Outreach
- Liaise with academic institutions, government departments, and conservation partners.
- Represent SLF at scientific forums, conferences, and meetings.
- Required Qualifications and Experience
Education:
- PhD in Wildlife Ecology, Conservation Biology, Quantitative ecology, or relent fields.
Experience:
- At least 3 years of experience in field research and monitoring.
- Experience with camera trap studies, wildlife surveys, and habitat/ecosystem assessment.
- Proven ability in data analysis using R or similar statistical packages.
- Track of scientific publications in peer reviewed journals
Technical Skills:
- Knowledge and experience with advanced modelling techniques (e.g., Spatially Explicit Capture-Recapture – SECR, occupancy modelling).
- Familiarity with GIS, remote sensing tools, and spatial ecology techniques.
- Strong report writing, documentation, and scientific publication skills.
- Desirable Attributes
- Ability to work in remote and rugged mountain landscapes.
- Good interpersonal and team management skills.
- Commitment to wildlife conservation and community-based approaches.
- Strong communication and networking skills.
- Familiarity with the ecological and sociocultural context of northern Pakistan is an asset.
- Remuneration
A competitive salary will be offered based on qualifications and experience, in line with SLF’s HR policies.
- Application Process
Interested candidates are invited to send a cover letter, detailed CV, and contact information for three referees to: info@slf.org.pk
Deadline for applications: February 22, 2026
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for test and interview.
Terms of references are available here for Download here
By: SLF Admin